Treasury statement and then U-turn
Interestingly, just a few days ago, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessant had clearly said that no such exemption will be extended. But now under a new license issued by the Treasury Department, limited purchases of Russian oil have been allowed till May 16. This sudden change shows how fast the situation is changing.
🚨🇺🇸🇷🇺 Two days ago, Treasury Secretary Bessent said the US would not renew the Russian oil waiver.
On Friday night, Treasury renewed it.
The waiver lets countries buy sanctioned Russian crude loaded on vessels through May 16.
The same administration enforcing a total naval… https://t.co/oqHmMqvYTnpic.twitter.com/4NMYVM7M0b
— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) April 18, 2026